By Rihana Adam, GNA
Accra, June 3, GNA – Mr Samson Deen, President of the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) of Ghana, has urged Ghanaians to rally behind the team as they prepare to represent the nation at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.
Speaking at the official unveiling ceremony in Accra on the theme, “Rising Beyond Limits, Carrying the Dreams of a Nation,” Mr Deen described the occasion as a celebration of courage, determination, resilience and excellence.
He said the athletes had earned the honour of representing Ghana through hard work, sacrifice and outstanding performances, adding that their qualification was a testament to their commitment and perseverance.
“Today, we celebrate five remarkable Ghanaians who have earned the honour of representing our nation at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland,” he said.
Mr Deen noted that the Commonwealth Games remained one of the world’s most respected sporting events, providing para-athletes with a platform to demonstrate that disability was not inability.
He said the athletes’ journey to Glasgow had been marked by years of sacrifice, rigorous training, financial challenges and setbacks, but their determination had enabled them to overcome every obstacle.
According to him, Ghana’s para sports movement had made significant progress over the years, citing the historic bronze medal won by Anita Fordjour at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi as a milestone that inspired many athletes.
Mr Deen announced that team Ghana would compete in Para Athletics, Para Powerlifting and Para Swimming at the Games.
The team comprises Zinabu Issah in the Women’s F57 category, Botsyo Nkegbe in the Men’s T54 category, HayfordAddai in the Men’s T47 category, Haruna Tahiru in the Men’s 100kg Plus Para Powerlifting event and Promise Aheto in Para Swimming.
He described the athletes as role models, ambassadors and symbols of hope who represented millions of people who believed that determination and opportunity could overcome any challenge.
He said, “para sports is not charity, it is about excellence, empowerment and opportunity.”
Mr. Deen called on stakeholders to continue supporting persons with disabilities through equal opportunities rather than sympathy, stressing that inclusion was critical to national development.
He also highlighted the transformative power of sports, noting that it created jobs, promoted health, inspired young people, united communities, attracted investment and strengthened national identity.
The NPC President urged stakeholders, including the media and corporate organisations, to help promote a positive image of Ghanaian sports.
He said, “we cannot build a successful sporting industry through negativity, we must celebrate our successes, support our athletes and tell stories that inspire.”
He expressed appreciation to the Government of Ghana for its support to para sports and called for increased investment in athlete development, coaching, welfare, infrastructure and international exposure.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade